Two University of Idaho sophomores were rewarded for the play against Idaho State with Player of the Week honors from the Western Athletic Conference.

Isaac Butts, a sophomore safety from Richland, Wash., earned the defensive honor after picking off two passes (returned for 25 yards), while adding four solo tackles and an assist.

Hunter, a cornerback and special teams player from Pasco, Wash., earned the special teams award after blocking a punt then recovering it in the end zone for the Vandals’ second touchdown in a 42-27 victory over Idaho State.

“I’m very excited that these guys would get this award,” coach Robb Akey said. “They both made a great impact in the course of the ballgame. Eric Hunter with his play in the special teams really helped get us off to a fast start. Isaac Butts got our first interception, our first takeaway of the year. He’s been playing well. I like the way he’s playing.”

The Vandals are at home again this weekend against Western Michigan. Kickoff against the Mid-American Conference Broncos is 2 p.m. (Pacific).